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Simpler Recycling: What businesses need to know

Blog
Cromwell Polythene
21 Mar 2025

As the UK government continues its commitment to a greener, more resourceful future, two major reforms effecting waste management practices are set to take effect in 2025—Simpler Recycling and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This new waste management legislation will significantly impact businesses, local authorities, and consumers, reinforcing the need for rigorous and resourceful waste management solutions. At Cromwell, we are dedicated to supporting organisations like YPO and their customers to navigate and prepare for these changes with high-quality, compliant waste containment products.

Simpler Recycling: A Phased Rollout

By 31st March 2025, businesses and organisations in England with 10 or more full-time equivalent employees will be required to separate recyclable materials from general waste. This initiative will extend to households by 31st March 2026, with local authorities providing services to ensure easier recycling for residents. Finally, by 31st March 2027, the regulations will apply to businesses with fewer than 10 employees, and plastic film, packaging, and bags will also need to be separated for recycling.

What Materials Will Need to Be Separated?

• Paper and cardboard
• Plastic bottles, pots, tubs, and trays
• Glass
• Metal tins, cans, aerosols, lids, food trays, and foil
• Food waste (businesses must comply by 2025, households by 2026)
• Plastic film and packaging (mandatory from 2027)
For businesses, implementing clear waste segregation practices will be essential. Cromwell’s range of CHSA-accredited refuse sacks, compostable liners, and recycling containment solutions can be ordered through YPO to support compliance with these requirements.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Packaging

Scheduled to commence in October 2025, EPR will shift the responsibility for packaging waste disposal costs from taxpayers to producers. Under this reform, businesses placing packaging on the market will be accountable for its entire lifecycle, including collection, sorting, and recycling. Producers will be required to pay annual fees covering waste management costs, with payments beginning in the financial year 2025-2026.

How EPR Aims to Drive Change:

• Increasing recyclability and reusability of packaging
• Encouraging clear labelling to reduce landfill contamination
• Enhancing material quality for recycling
• Minimising excessive packaging in the supply chain

Cromwell has invested time and resources into reviewing and implementing a reduction in packaging and maximising products per carton to minimise the impact of EPR.

Summary

As these regulations approach, businesses should take proactive steps to assess their waste collection strategies. Investing in the right waste containment solutions now will ensure compliance, mitigate the financial impact of these reforms, and contribute to a more circular economy. Check out YPO’s food waste management page for support with meeting the new regulations.

Author

Cromwell Polythene